If you are an avid scrap metal collector or you have found
that you have mounds of junk lying around your workshop, shed or garage, you
may be wondering how to best dispose of it. One way of doing this is to melt it
all down into one larger piece of metal, either to sell to a scrap dealer or to
make something new out of yourself. If either of these solutions appeals to
you, you can use this guide to help you properly melt the scrap down.

Scrap Metal

Step 1: Separate all of your scraps according to type. This
is highly important, as different metals will melt at different temperatures
and this knowledge will allow you to adjust the heat accordingly.

Step 2: Put all of the scrap metal of one type into a
crucible that is large enough to fit all of the pieces in. Pour a layer of
baking soda over the pieces.

Step 3: Take a butane torch and adjust the flame according
to the type of metal that you are melting. Copper, brass and gold, for example,
will melt between about 926 degrees Celsius and 1,100 degrees Celsius.

Step 4: Put on a pair of thick work gloves and direct the
torch’s flame towards the crucible. Wait until the scrap metal has melted into
a liquid form. You can speed up this process by having a second person hold a
second butane torch to the crucible as well.

Step 5: Once the metal has been liquefied, you can pour it
into an ingot or other type of mould in order to form whatever shape you want.
To avoid burning yourself, use tongs to move and tip the crucible.

You can repeat the same procedure for each of the different
scrap metals that you have in your possession. If you are taking the materials
to a scrap dealer, it is recommended that you place the liquefied material into
ingot forms (as this are easier to weigh and transport).